1970 And Earlier Adjustments
1971 To 1978 Adjustments
CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT FOR SPORTSTERS**
(1979 - Early 1984)
General
Periodic adjustment of the clutch and oiling of the
clutch control cable is required every 2500 miles to compensate for lining wear.
The need for attention to the clutch and controls will also be Indicated by the clutch
slipping under load, or dragging In released position. In any case, the first thing
to be checked is the adjustment of the clutch control.
Adjusting Clutch Release Mechanism
(Figure 6-5)
1. Loosen clutch cable adjuster locknut (13) and turn
adjuster (15) inward until there is a large amount of
free play at hand lever on handlebar.
2. Remove access plug (1) from primary chain cover
using ACCESS PLUG REMOVAL TOOL.
3. Loosen adjusting screw locknut (3) using CLUTCH ADJUSTING NUT WRENCH,
and turn screw (5) inward until it becomes harder
to turn (starts to release the clutch) and continue
turning (2 more turns) to be sure clutch is
disengaged.
4. Adjust all free play out of clutch cable by turning
adjuster (15) outward. Do not put any tension on
cable. With all slack in cable eliminated (no play at
hand lever) tighten the coil adjuster locknut (13).
This is the correct cable adjustment.
5. The clutch release adjustment should then be
made with the clutch adjusting screw as follows.
Back off the adjusting screw (5) until the clutch is
engaged (screw turns easier), then, turn screw inward until the point where
free play of adjusting
screw has just been eliminated. From this point,
turn the adjusting screw outward 1/8 to 1/4 turn to
establish correct free play, and tighten locknut (3)
while holding screw (5) stationary.
6. See Figure 6-6. Check free play at clutch
handlever. There should be 1/16 in. free play between handle and bracket.
If incorrect, readjust sleeve (15, Figure 6-5) and tighten locknut (13).
NOTE
If the clutch continues to slip under load or drag in
released position, clutch springs may need adjusting or
release mechanism may not be operating.
Adjusting Clutch Spring Tension
(Figure 6-7)
Clutch spring tension is determined by
the length of six stud spacers. To correct clutch slippage caused by worn
clutch drive plate linings, a set of
shorter than standard spacers can be installed.
Under no circumstances should clearance between
releasing disc and outer drive plate be allowed to go
under minimum 1/8 in. dimension shown. All spacers
should be equal in length.
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**Copyright © 1970,1973,1985 Harley Davidson, Inc.